[This is part of the series: 31 Persuasion Tips That I Learned From Scott Adams]
Certainty works in the sense that people are drawn to the clear and simple.
The lesson from this is to not waiver, even if you think you could be wrong.
Take work.
Maybe you are giving a presentation in front of a group about a new product.
It’s an interactive talk and people are asking questions here and there as you go to generate discussion.
The CEO raises her hand and asks: “Will we offer this in California by spring?”
You freeze internally and forget what regions will be rolled out at on what dates.
Now, which looks better, more competent?
1. “Yes, California will be out by spring. Let’s get together afterward to make sure we are on the same page with dates on the rollout.”
2. “Uh. Mmm. I am not sure. Let me see if I can. Uhhhhh.” And spend the next 2 minutes looking over your notes in silence.
Be clear and confident, even if you need to go back and correct yourself later.
PERSUASION TIP 17: People prefer certainty over uncertainty, even when the certainty is wrong.